Wildlife enthusiast Terry Chettle captured a unique moment at Grimsby Wetlands in early August while photographing a green heron. An unexpected appearance by a river otter caught both Chettle and the heron off guard. The resident of Beamsville, Ont., expressed surprise at the unusual sighting of an otter in the area, considering it a rare occurrence. Seizing the opportunity, Chettle snapped a photo of the otter as it moved to a log and engaged in preening, even striking a playful pose with its tongue out and a wave.
During the same outing, Bruce and Laurie Mackenzie encountered Chettle, who pointed out the otter to them. Bruce Mackenzie remarked on the rarity of the find, noting that the otter’s appearance on August 3 was likely the first such sighting near the wetlands in recent memory. He mentioned that there have been no further sightings of the otter since that weekend. The wetlands area, once used by the Niagara Region for sewage storage, is now managed by the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, covering approximately 12 hectares along Lake Ontario’s South Shore. Mackenzie, who is involved with the naturalists club as the project manager for the wetlands, highlighted that the otter sighting is a positive indicator of habitat restoration and improved water quality. He cited previous rare species sightings in the wetlands, such as the threatened least bitterns in Ontario.
Laura Timms, a program manager in natural heritage management at Credit Valley Conservation, described river otters as a conservation success story. The authority oversees the Credit River watershed, which includes significant parts of Mississauga and Peel Region. Timms referenced an article published in 2025 by the conservation authority, detailing the resurgence of river otters in the area. She noted a noticeable increase in documented otter sightings, with recent occurrences at conservation areas like Rattray Marsh and Jim Tovey Lakeview, where otters have even given birth to pups.
Despite contacting the Hamilton and Niagara conservation authorities for input on otter populations, only the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority responded, stating they do not monitor wildlife. Timms explained that river otter populations faced a decline in the 1800s due to hunting, environmental degradation, and habitat loss. However, concerted efforts over the years have led to a rebound in otter populations in North America, reflecting the positive outcomes of habitat restoration initiatives.
River otters, known to grow up to 1.4 meters in length and weigh between five to 14 kilograms, are carnivorous mammals that inhabit rivers, lakes, and creeks. They primarily feed on fish, clams, insects, and other aquatic creatures. Timms emphasized the importance of focusing on broader biodiversity conservation efforts, highlighting the critical role of wetlands in supporting various species, carbon sequestration, and flood prevention. She underscored the need for continued restoration and protection of habitats to ensure the thriving of all species and the potential for more conservation success stories akin to that of river otters.
